You would be hard-pressed to find a sport more culturally unique than Sumo. The spectacle, deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, is like nothing else on earth and is something that many visitors to Japan say they’d love to witness. Sumo’s origin traces back more than 1,500 years, to performances that combined Shinto rituals with combat, intended as entertainment for the Gods. Over several centuries, Sumo slowly evolved into Japan’s national sport, celebrating strength, athleticism, and of course, tradition and ceremony.
Nowadays, Sumo matches are an exciting energy-sapping affair, showcasing powerful wrestlers (otherwise known as a rikishi when professionally employed by the Japan Sumo Association) who clash in circular rings called dohyo. Every match has a flurry of rituals, such as the purifying of the ring with salt and the elaborate referee attire symbolizing Shinto priests.
Sumo may retain its rightful place as a mainstay of Japanese heritage but its overall popularity is sadly declining due to the rising popularity of other, more modern, global sports. However, the Sumo fanbase is undeniably loyal, with major tournaments still attracting thousands of spectators. So too, it is undeniable that Sumo will always remain a tourist draw, with visitors seeking to witness history and sample events incomparable with anything else in the world.
Where to Watch Sumo
There are six major Sumo tournaments throughout the year and they are held in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. The Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo is the premier venue for watching Sumo and is also where you can visit the Sumo Museum to learn more about the sport and its history. Additionally, you can sometimes find regional matches and training sessions open to the public at Sumo stables, which provide an up-close look at how the athletes train and perform. To give you accessibility information, however, we’ll be focusing later on Ryogoku Kokugikan.
The Life of a Sumo Wrestler
Becoming a sumo wrestler is not just about competing; it requires embracing a disciplined lifestyle rooted in tradition. Wrestlers live in communal training stables called heya, where a strict hierarchy dictates roles and responsibilities. Junior wrestlers handle chores and prepare meals, while senior wrestlers focus on honing their skills.
A key part of their regimen is the high-calorie Chankonabe stew, designed to fuel intense training and maintain their powerful physiques. Their daily routines are grueling, with rigorous practice sessions and a focus on building strength, endurance, and mental resilience.
Reaching the top rank of yokozuna is the ultimate goal for a rikishi. These elite athletes are celebrated not just as champions but as cultural icons, embodying strength, perseverance, and honor. Their journey reflects the deep respect and commitment required to uphold the traditions of sumo.
Accessible Sumo Experiences
Given that, for so many, experiencing Sumo first-hand is such a top draw reason for vacationing in Japan, it’s unsurprising that efforts have been made to make these experiences inclusive for a diverse audience, including those with disabilities. According to the fantastic blog post on our website “Sensational Sumo: Accessibility and Affect in Japanese Sports” by the late Dr. Mark Bookman, Sumo venues are increasingly accommodating those with mobility needs.
Quoting from the article:
“As a wheelchair user, I was instructed to enter the facility using a side door to the left of the main entrance. Following a paved pathway, I made my way through crowds of people and entered the large building, only to confront a sea of bodies… Despite these challenges, the accessible box seating provided an excellent vantage point to enjoy the matches.”
The Sumo Museum: A Must-Visit for Fans
To explore Sumo’s fascinating history more thoroughly, a visit to the Sumo Museum at Ryogoku Kokugikan is a must. Located on the first floor of the Kokugikan, the museum offers an in-depth look into the world of sumo, showcasing a wide range of historical artifacts that reflect the sport’s rich evolution. Exhibits include items such as ceremonial aprons once worn by famous rikishi, vintage woodblock prints, banzuke (official rank listings), and photographs of past champions. These collections provide insight into the sport’s long history, from its origins in Shinto rituals to its current status as a national pastime. The museum also holds themed exhibitions six times a year, each offering a fresh perspective on sumo’s deep cultural roots. For sumo enthusiasts and those with an interest in Japanese history, this museum is an excellent place to connect with the sport’s tradition.
While the museum itself is relatively small, its compact size makes it easy to visit during a day of exploring the nearby Edo-Tokyo Museum. The Sumo Museum is open on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, except for weekends and national holidays, when it remains closed. During the major sumo tournaments held annually at Ryogoku Kokugikan, the museum is open every day, but access is limited to those attending the tournament. It’s worth noting that photography is prohibited within the museum, so visitors will need to take in the experience firsthand rather than through their cameras.
As noted in the “Sumo Museum Accessibility Report,” the facility is wheelchair-accessible and designed to provide an inclusive experience for all visitors. The museum is located in a fully accessible building with ramps and elevators. For those arriving by public transport, the museum is conveniently served by two nearby stations: Ryogoku Station (JR Sobu Line, West Exit) and Ryogoku Station (Toei Oedo Line, Exit A3). These stations are equipped with wheelchair-accessible exits and facilities.
Although the museum itself is free to visit, it’s best to check the schedule ahead of time, as the exhibits change regularly and may be closed for updates. Additionally, while the Ryogoku Kokugikan building is fully accessible, including the museum, it’s important to note that the nearby wheelchair-accessible restroom is sometimes unavailable during regular weekdays. Alternative accessible restroom options are available at the adjacent train stations or the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Despite its small size, the Sumo Museum is a valuable stop for anyone with an interest in sumo’s historical and cultural significance, and it offers a chance to experience this unique aspect of Japan’s heritage in an accessible and welcoming environment.
Conclusion
Whether you’re cheering for your favorite rikishi at a live match in Ryogoku Kokugikan or discovering the rich history of sumo at the Sumo Museum, this iconic sport truly has something special for everyone. Japan is making great strides in accessibility, making it easier than ever for individuals with disabilities to enjoy the exhilarating experience of sumo wrestling. From the exciting clash of rikishi to the beautiful cultural rituals, sumo is not just a sport—it’s a vibrant tradition that warmly welcomes all to be a part of it.
0 Comments